Report: Tennessee veteran Keenan Pili expected to return for 2024 season

Tennessee Volunteers linebacker Keenan Pili is expected to return to the program for another season instead of taking his talents to the NFL, according to Matt Zenitz.

Prior to joining Tennessee ahead of last season, Pili spent four seasons with BYU. However, an injury derailed his season with the Volunteers, so it’s looking like the linebacker is back in Knoxville with some unfinished business to take care of.

Throughout his collegiate career, Pili has accumulated 194 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, four pass deflections and a forced fumble.

Earlier in the season, Tennessee leader Josh Heupel commended Pili’s attitude, even though he wasn’t on the field.

“But our young guys are continuing to step up at that position but Keenan, a special leader and has been even while he’s been out. One of the first ones in the building, constantly watching film, I think he’s been a real help to the young guys that are out there on the football field and he’s working his butt off to get back as soon as possible and obviously we feel like he’s a difference maker,” Heupel said, earlier this year.

Tennessee will be happy to hear Keenan Pili is returning, and excited to slot him into their defense for 2024.

More on the 2024 NFL Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Michigan, with the first round on Thursday, April 25, the second and third rounds on Friday, April 26, and the fourth through seventh rounds on Saturday, April 27.

Players will have the opportunity to solidify their draft stock at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, to be held in Indianapolis, Indiana from February 26 through March 4.

The three-day event will be broadcasted throughout the weekend on ESPN and NFL Network.

To be eligible for the NFL Draft, players must be at least three years removed from their final year of high school while having used up their collegiate eligibility. Underclassmen are able to request league approval to become eligible for the draft, as are players who have graduated prior to using up all of their collegiate eligibility.

Last season, 69 players were granted special eligibility for the 2023 NFL Draft. 13 underclassmen who had completed their college degrees were also deemed eligible to be selected.

The deadline to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft is on January 15. NFL teams will receive a full list of eligible players in the class on January 19.